Thanksgiving: Making Space for Gratitude, Story, and Rest
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever.”
— Psalm 107:1
It’s the week before Thanksgiving. Are you looking forward to it or too busy to answer making lists or concerned about family and friends keeping the conversation on a positive note?
Thanksgiving is one of those days that carries a remarkable amount of heart—and a remarkable amount of work. For many families, Thanksgiving has become not only a cherished tradition but also a marathon of effort.
And yet at its heart, Thanksgiving has always been about something simple and sacred: gathering, giving thanks, and remembering God’s goodness.
Here are some ten effortless ways to make space for celebrating the true meaning of this day that will surround you with peace and joy in the process:
Share the Load Most people love bringing something they’re known for. Invite guests to bring their favorite side or dessert. Not only does it lighten your workload, but the table becomes a beautiful patchwork of everyone’s offerings. I remember my mom, mother-in-law, and I all brought a cranberry dish. They were all different but it’s good to ask what they are bringing so you can coordinate…or have enjoy the left overs.
Prepare Ahead Chop vegetables the day before. When my mom and father-in-law were alive they came the day before and helped chop all the vegys. My mom would bring sandwiches and it was an easy time of banter. I cherish those memories. Set the table on Wednesday. Bake pies earlier in the week (Or better yet, have someone bring one.) Even small steps make Thursday feel lighter.
Consider a Friendsgiving If family is far away—or if this season feels different—gather friends who feel like family. There is deep holiness in creating a table for those who need one. Our table is now all friends being our families are on the West coast. It’s a special time of sharing.
Consider Other who are not as fortunate. Drop off food items needed by your food local pantry, offer to volunteer a portion of the day. My husband, Roger, sits on the Board of Directors for the Greater NY Salvation Army and this year they asked if he would volunteer. So we are both going in and discovered a dear friend didn’t have plans for Thanksgiving and she will be joining us. We will then have our Thanksgiving on Saturday.
Keeping the Peace: Centering the Day on What Matters Holidays sometimes bring together people who view the world in very different ways. With the constant headlines and challenging news cycles, it’s understandable to feel nervous about topics that might surface.
One gentle way to protect the heart of the day is simply to name its purpose: This is a day for gratitude, for remembering blessings, for sharing stories, and for savoring the gift of being together.
You can even say something ahead of time like, “Let’s keep today for gratitude and connection,” and gently guide the conversation back if needed.
The Day Of: Savoring and Blessing the Table With so much effort poured into the day, it’s worth finding ways to make the meal last more than the usual 15 minutes!
Begin with Prayer Ask someone ahead of time to offer the blessing. Giving them the opportunity to reflect helps set a thoughtful tone.
Invite Everyone to Share A simple question can turn a meal into a moment: What are you thankful for this year? What is a Thanksgiving memory that still makes you smile? Who blessed your life this year? I’ve laughed at so many of the stories and been inspired by others. My husband shared at one Thanksgiving, when the turkey was resting the family dog helped himself to one side of the very large turkey. Caught just in time before it was devoured, the turkey was served on the side not touched. Everyone had a good laugh thinking of how Julia Child might have handled it.
Add a Little Fun Thanksgiving riddles, trivia, or “table talkers” (simple question cards) can keep conversation flowing and laughter easy.
Slow Down Together Encourage everyone to linger. Sip coffee. Share stories. Ask one more question. The food nourishes the body—but the time together nourishes the soul.
What would you add to this list of choices? How do you celebrate Thanksgiving? Please share any stories or suggestions.
May we all be nourished by giving thanks to God for all he has given us, taken away, and left for us. Blessings to you dear readers, I am thankful to each of you for reading my messages.
